Oasis Of Wonders: Must-Have Experiences In Ladakh's Nubra Valley

Nubra, also known as Dumra, is a historical territory of Ladakh now governed as a subdivision and tehsil in the Leh district. The Nubra and Shyok rivers divide its populated parts into three arms. Dumra, meaning "valley of flowers" in Tibetan, is known for its breathtaking landscape, rich culture, and adventurous activities, which beckons travellers who seek a serene getaway.

Whether looking for a relaxing getaway, a spiritual journey, or a thrilling adventure, Nubra Valley is the place for you. Here are some top things to do in Nubra Valley that you should not miss.

Take A Camel Safari

One of the most unique and fun things to do in Nubra Valley is to take a camel safari on the famed double-humped Bactrian camels. These camels, indigenous to the frosty deserts of Central Asia, thrive amidst Nubra Valley's challenging environment.

You can enjoy a camel ride on Hunder's sand dunes, also known as the Valley of Flowers. The camel safari will give you a chance to admire the scenic beauty of the valley and experience the local culture. The cost of the ride is around INR 180 for 15 minutes.

Visit Diskit Monastery

Diskit Monastery is the oldest and largest monastery in Nubra Valley. It was founded in the 14th century by Changzem Tserab Zangpo, a disciple of Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is perched on a hilltop and offers a panoramic view of the valley.

Diskit was inaugurated by the Dalai Lama in 2010 and is also home to a 32-meter-high statue of Maitreya Buddha, the future Buddha. It is a place of peace and spirituality, where you can witness the daily prayers and rituals of the monks.

Here, you can experience various festivities, including the Dosmoche festival, which involves masked dances, prayers, and colourful celebrations, attracting both locals and tourists.

You can visit the monastery between 7 am to 6 pm. It is closed for one hour at 1 pm. It's contact number is 0194 250 2274.

Take A Bath In The Panamik Hot Springs

Panamik Village is a quaint village in Nubra Valley famous for its hot springs, which are believed to have medicinal properties and can cure various ailments. You can take a dip in the hot springs and relax your body and mind. Panamik Village is also a historical place, as it was once a part of the ancient Silk Route that connected India with Tibet and China.

You can see the remnants of the trade route and the old caravanserais in the village. Panamik offers picturesque vistas with snow-capped peaks, lush greenery, and the shimmering Nubra River flowing through the valley. The village provides a perfect setting for leisurely walks and exploration, allowing travellers to soak in the tranquillity of the Himalayan region.

Experience Balti Culture In Turtuk Village

Turtuk Village is a hidden gem in Nubra Valley that is not very popular among tourists. It is one of the few places in India where you can experience the authentic Balti culture and cuisine. The Baltis are an ethnic group of Tibetan origin who live in the regions of Ladakh, Baltistan, and Gilgit-Baltistan. Turtuk Village was a part of Pakistan until 1971 when it was annexed by India during the Indo-Pak War. 

The village has a distinct charm and beauty, with green fields, orchards, streams, and wooden houses. You can interact with the friendly locals, taste their delicious food, and learn about their history and traditions.

Camping At Nubra Valley

One of the best things to do in Nubra Valley is to camp under the stars and enjoy the serene and tranquil atmosphere of the valley. Being one of the most popular camping sites in Ladakh, Nubra Valley has many campsites that offer comfortable tents, delicious food, and bonfires. You can camp at Hunder, Diskit, Sumur, or Panamik and enjoy the views of the sand dunes, the mountains, and the river. Camping at Nubra Valley is a perfect way to unwind and reconnect with yourself and nature.

Visit Lake Yarab Tso

Lake Yarab Tso is a lesser-known, almost-hidden lake in Nubra Valley that is considered to be sacred by the locals. The lake is located near the village of Sumur and can be reached by a short hike from the main road. The lake is surrounded by barren hills and has crystal clear water that reflects the blue sky. The lake is a place of peace and tranquillity where you can meditate and pray. You can also see some rock carvings and stupas near the lake, which add to its spiritual significance.

Permit Requirements

Indian citizens need an Inner Line Permit to enter the Nubra Valley as it falls under the protected area of Ladakh. To apply for the permit online, you can visit here.

Getting There

You can take a flight from Delhi to Leh, which is the nearest airport to Nubra Valley. From Leh, you can hire a taxi or join a shared cab to Nubra Valley, which is about 160 km away. You will have to cross the Khardung La pass, one of the highest motorable roads in the world, to reach Nubra Valley. The journey from Leh to Nubra Valley takes about 4-5 hours by road.